How to Grieve for the Loss of a Loved One

Grief is a natural part of coping with the loss of a loved one. However, it is usually not considered the most pleasant of emotions, but it is a natural part of living. When your loved one passes, it is generally a difficult time for everyone involved. If you are looking for guidance, here are ways to grieve for the loss of a loved one.

Allow Yourself to Grieve

You should not suppress your emotions. Suppression is the cause of grave mental stress, depression, and anxiety. Some people have a natural reaction to ignore the negative feelings they have, but avoid this at all costs—your unprocessed emotions will find a way to haunt you somehow. When people do not go through the healthy process of grief and sorrow, they fall into self-destructive paths. Those who do not process their grief will likely fall into a deep depression, and have the capacity to trigger alcoholism, impulsive gambling or shopping habits, and other excessive behaviors. While it does not come naturally to everyone, allow yourself space to feel.

Express Your Grief

People often confuse grief with mourning. Mourning is the act of publicly displaying grief, such as in older traditions when women would where black to mourn their deceased husbands for a period of mourning. However, grief and mourning are quite different. Grief is the feeling of sorrow, and it does not have to be displayed publicly. If you are someone who does not like to wear their emotions on their sleeve, consider a private way of expressing your sorrow. There are many ways in which you can relieve yourself of sorrow that are healthy and constructive, and exclusive to yourself.

For example, you may want to try to write a letter. If you lacked closure with your loved one, write a letter to them expressing how you feel. It can be filled with whatever you need to say, and you can write it and rewrite it as much as you need. After you write the letter, you may feel like you have purged a lot of the negativity out of you for some release. If you enjoy expressing yourself in writing, then this may be the right option for you.

Likewise, if you are a musician or artist, try creating work that expresses your sorrow. Compose a song, a poem, or paint a picture that allows you to release some of your feelings. Creative outlets can prove to be extremely beneficial for times of grief.

Go About Your Daily Routine

While the loss of a loved one may make you feel a desperate urge to find time inside your home for days or weeks on end, there comes a time when you must get back into a routine. You may need more time to grieve, but going through a daily routine will help put you back on your feet. Establish your daily schedule. Find a good time of day to go to the gym, and make sure you continue to eat regular meals. Even if it feels difficult, urge yourself to continue to go to work every day. After a period of time, you will be grateful that you stuck to a routine. Regular exercise, for instance, is excellent to keep your body and mind healthy. Instead of emotionally disintegrating on the couch at home, get active at a local gym. Increased circulation through cardio stimulates pleasure centers of the brain and acts as the catalyst for releasing hormones such as endorphins, which elevate mood. Improved diet will keep your immune system up, which can weaken during bouts of depression. Decreased intake in artificial sugars will prevent inflammation in joints, headaches, and acne. Meals packed with vitamins, minerals, and proteins will keep your body active and strong, which will in turn create a stronger and healthier mind.

Discuss Any Financial Matters Openly

When your loved one passes, the last thing you may want to think about is money. However, it is important that you discuss the financial matters of a funeral service with your family, to prevent the burden of even more stress in your life. Opt for funeral financing like the plans available from www.burialinsurance.org so that he or she gets the service they desire, and so that you can grieve for your loved one without the added stress of finances on your mind.

Losing a loved one is a horrible thing to go through but certain steps can help ease the decisions made during the difficult time.

Hi, I’m Ashley!

I'm a stay at home mom to one adorable little girl and I have the most amazing husband! We're a typical family that struggles with finances, priorities, and all the other challenges that life throws our way. I’m passionate about glorifying God and making the most of each and every day here on earth. Read more